Air Conditioners For Condos
A lot of modern apartments and condos do not have built-in air cooling units. They do have windows that extend from floor to ceiling, which provide great views, but also let in too much sunlight and heat.
If your home is duct-worked, a central AC system is a good idea. HVAC contractors Brick spoke with told us that if your home doesn’t have ductwork, a central air conditioning system might be the best option.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners are an inexpensive and simple method to cool your apartment without having to install ductwork. They remove warm air from the room and replace it with cooler air. This makes them an ideal choice for those on a budget or older homes without ductwork. They do have some drawbacks, which must be considered prior to purchase.
Window ACs are only capable of cooling one room, which makes them not a good choice for larger homes. They also consume lots of energy, making it crucial to choose models with high Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) ratings or Energy Star certifications. They could also pose a security threat, as they can be easily removed, allowing easy access into your home.
Depending on the dimensions of the unit as well as the kind of window it’s placed in, you may need to install accordions or wooden to block out excess space around both sides of the window. You can install most window units yourself using the window installation set. Simply place the chassis inside the frame and secure the sleeves. For larger models with higher BTU capacity, the chassis is designed to move across rails and the sleeve is fixed to the frame by brackets that hold it to the window.
To determine the size unit you will require by multiplying the square footage by the number BTUs needed to cool the room comfortably. To maximize efficiency, consider whether the room receives lots of sunlight or is located on an upper floor. A larger unit is more expensive, but it can save you money on energy over time. If you want to have a long-term solution, our HVAC experts suggest purchasing central AC system. Although the initial cost is higher, it will be able to pay for itself in the long run with lower monthly utilities and a longer life span than multiple window units.
2. Portable Units
A portable air conditioner is a standalone cooling system that functions much as a space heater. The units are designed to connect to an outlet, and a tube, also known as a mini-duct, will be able to run out a window in order to let CO2 and heat out (not to be confused with the poisonous gas CO2). The units are mobile and can be sized by their cooling capacity (defined by BTU ratings). A unit should be designed according to the room it is intended to be used in. Oversized units won’t cool well and can be worn out more quickly than.
These units are used typically in apartments or converted homes that do not have ducting systems or where the central AC unit is the primary cooling system. The use of a portable AC in one or more rooms can help reduce the load on your central system, saving electricity and money.
The best portable units also include a dehumidifier feature to cut down on the amount of moisture. This is a typical reason for hot spots, and can cause the room to feel uncomfortable. The units should also come with washable filters that can be cleaned to maintain their efficiency and remote controls for effortless operation. Choose energy STAR certified models to save on electricity and money compared to non-certified units.
If you decide to go with a portable option it’s crucial to choose the dual-hose model over a single-hose option. Dual-hose models draw outside air through the condenser coils and then blow it out through the other hose. This increases the efficiency and reduces the sound of the unit. It may cost more to purchase a portable unit that has this feature, but it can be worth the cost in terms of savings and the comfort.
4. Ductless Systems
Ductless systems, often referred to as mini-splits are duct-free alternatives to central air conditioning. They are comprised of an outdoor unit as well as one or more indoor units and thin piping that is inserted into small holes in your walls. Ductless systems make a great choice for condos because they can be installed in areas where traditional HVAC ducts simply are not possible. They are the ideal cooling solution for a lot of Southwest Florida homes, condos and apartments since homeowners don’t wish to cut into floors and walls to install ductwork.
In a ductless unit, air is cool by the unit in the indoor when it travels through refrigerant-filled tubes from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter when compared to other alternatives, so it is possible to cool your space without causing disturbance to others. Certain ductless systems also provide heating which means you can enjoy all year round luxury.
The ductless system is suitable for a variety of spaces like garages, sunrooms, and bedrooms. They can also improve the quality of life for older homes condominiums, apartments, and homes that do not have ductwork. This kind of system is also suitable for multifamily housing, as it is able to easily adapt to different needs and patterns of occupancy.
A ductless system is also more energy-efficient than conventional systems due to the fact that it doesn’t require the force of air over long distances. This means that it can reduce your power consumption significantly. These systems are smaller than forced air systems, saving on installation costs and space.
Ductless systems provide superior cooling performance and can be adapted to your personal preferences in temperature. With an air filtration system that filters out harmful air particles, they can also improve the air quality in your apartment. This can help you avoid asthma and allergies, while keeping your space comfortable throughout the season. If you’re looking to know more about installing an ductless system in your home, call us today! Our technicians are ready to assist you. We can evaluate your needs and help select the most suitable air conditioning solution for your unique situation.
